Wildlife and Animal Problems

Wildlife Rescue

Wildlife Rescuers are unpaid volunteers who are members of Wildlife Victoria.  They specialise in the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife. 

Their role is one of rescuing injured, sick and orphaned wildlife and where possible releasing healthy animals back in to the wild.

Wildlife Rescuers offer a 24 hours service on 1300 094 535 and further information can by obtained on their Wildlife Rescuers.

Possums

All possums are protected in Victoria under the provisions of the Wildlife Act 1975. 

The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) possums web page contains background information on possums and suggestions for minimising problems caused by possums.

Magpies

The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) magpies web page contains valuable information and tips on how to protect yourself from swooping birds. 

DSE can also be contacted on 136 186.

Snakes

The most common snakes in Brimbank are the Brown and Tiger snakes. The Tiger snake can be identified by green or black coloured stripes. The Brown snake can be identified by its silvery to chocolate brown colourings and has a very small head.

Tiger snakes are generally frightened of you and will try to get away when approached or disturbed, however, the Brown snake is very aggressive when disturbed or approached.

If you see a snake on your property it is important to have it taken away by a professional wildlife controller. This is a no charge service in Brimbank. It is the safest and most effective way to remove it. Do not attempt to remove the snake yourself.

What do you do if you see a snake?

If you see a snake on your property the two most important things to do are:

1.  Stay calm and
2.  Call the Council on 9249 4000.

The snake catcher will immediately be contacted to catch the snake. Do not touch the snake – leave it alone. It only aggravates it, making the snake controller’s job harder. Keep an eye on the snake’s whereabouts while you wait.

First Aid

If you are bitten, do not wash the wound. Put pressure on the wound with a bandage by applying it firmly (or use a piece of material or clothing if you don’t have a bandage). Have someone drive you to the nearest hospital.

Hospitals with anti-venom are:

• Western Hospital: Furlong Road, Sunshine ph: 9365 6101
• Western Hospital: Gordon Street, Footscray ph: 9319 6598
• Bacchus Marsh Hospital: Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh ph: 5367 2000
• Royal Children’s Hospital: Flemington Road, Parkville ph: 9365 5489 and
• Royal Melbourne Hospital: Gratton Street, Parkville ph: 9342 7000.

Discouraging snakes from your property

Prevention is always better than cure. A well maintained garden is less likely to attract snakes to your property. Cut your grass regularly. You should cut away from your house.

Vibrations alert snakes that you are there and they head away from your property. Keep any materials in your backyard to a minimum. Things leaning against your fence make good hiding places for snakes.

Keeping animals like chickens, rabbits and birds attract mice. Mice are a snake’s favourite food. 

When gardening, wear gloves and solid footwear. An extra layer helps protect you from a snake bite. If you do any garden work after dark, turn the light on. Don’t put your hands into nooks and crannies – it could be a snake’s hiding place.

Further Information

For more information call 9249 4000 or email info@brimbank.vic.gov.au